Before compiling a TN submission, make the employer’s actual professional proposal understandable. A broad title is not a listed profession by itself, and additional documents cannot cure a substantive mismatch between the work and the proposed category.
Ask the employer for a representative assignment
Hypothetical example: a “project specialist” is expected to design a solution, coordinate vendors and prepare commercial reports. Ask for the actual responsibilities and a realistic account of how the work is divided. Use the explanation to assess the profession; do not rewrite the assignment merely to echo a category description.
Match qualifications only after identifying the profession
Review the precise listed profession and its credential requirements, including any permitted alternatives. Link each requirement to genuine records. TN requires eligible Canadian or Mexican citizenship as well as the professional criteria. Canadian permanent residence and a strong résumé do not automatically establish those requirements.
Close the important gaps before polishing the file
Compare the offer and employer explanation, including actual employment, customer and ownership arrangements. Flag contradictions and unresolved duties. A shorter accurate account is more useful than unsupported certainty. Confirm the appropriate process using the completed facts, and do not treat the employer’s target date as authorization to start work.
What else is on your mind?
Is a matching job title enough for TN?Can years of experience replace a degree for TN?Can my own U.S. company employ me under TN?Can my spouse work if I hold TN status?Editorial source review: 2026-09-07. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.